Kozlovic Santa Lucia Noir 2017

Drink now or cellar for up to 11 years. Decant 2 hours before serving. Santa Lucia Noir represents the meeting of tradition and innovation where indigenous Croatian grapes combine harmoniously with their more famous international cousins. Composed of 50% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Teran, this bold bottling from family-run Kozlovic Winery shows off Istria’s potential to produce serious red blends. Gianfranco and Antonella Kozlovic only produce their Santa Lucia Noir during the very best years to ensure consistent high quality across the vintages. The perfectionist couple also hand harvest all the grapes for this wine and insist on maturing the wine in oak barrels for a total of 18 months to add complexity and create a wine capable of extended ageing. Upon opening the bottle the deep red hue characteristic of both Cabernet Sauvignon and Teran is immediately apparent along with powerful aromas of wild dark berries, leather and sweet spices. The first sip reveals a full body with plenty of firm tannins complemented by luscious black fruit flavours and gamey, earthy hints. If you can resist it, this wine will continue to age beautifully over the next decade or so. For those who prefer younger wines, try serving this big bottle alongside a prime steak or barbecued meat to balance the robust flavours and tannins.

Price: £58.50 from 8wines UK